Kuwait Lifts Outdoor Work Ban As Safety Rules Protect 1 Million Indians
Kuwait City, September 1, 2026: The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) confirmed that the seasonal outdoor work ban, which prohibited labor in open areas between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from June 1 to August 31, has officially ended. This policy change impacts a significant number of expatriate workers in sectors including construction, roadwork, maintenance, loading and unloading, outdoor cleaning, and landscaping.
- PAM confirmed the outdoor work ban ended on September 1, 2026.
- Safety regulations remain in effect for 1 million Indians in Kuwait.
- Workers can report unsafe conditions to their employer or the Indian Embassy.
Safety Framework and Employer Rules
While the specific 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. restriction is lifted, Kuwait’s 2026 revised labor-safety framework maintains the authority of PAM to limit, postpone, or suspend outdoor work during extreme heat, dust storms, heavy rain, unusually high humidity, flooding, or other unsafe climatic conditions. Employers are still mandated to provide safe working environments, including access to cold drinking water, first-aid supplies, suitable rest breaks, and shaded rest areas.
Impact on Indian Workers and Schedules
This development is significant for the Indian community in Kuwait, which numbers approximately 1 million people according to the Indian Embassy. A substantial portion of this population is employed in skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled roles within construction, engineering support, transport, maintenance, retail logistics, and service sectors. Workers are advised to confirm updated duty rosters with their supervisors, as companies may shift schedules back to normal daytime operations starting September 1.
How to Report Unsafe Conditions
Employees who believe they are being forced to work in unsafe conditions should first report the issue to their employer, site supervisor, or safety officer. If unresolved, they may contact the Indian Embassy in Kuwait’s Labour Wing. The Labour Complaints Desk operates Sunday through Thursday. The Embassy can be reached via its main reception at +965-22530600, 22530612, 22530613, or 22530614. After-hours, the reception is available at +965-65501946, with emergency contacts at +965-22562151. Labour complaints may also be emailed to cw1.kuwait@mea.gov.in.